Quick Facts About Tooth Decay
- Cavities are common throughout the lifespan and can lead to dental pain and tooth loss. Children who experience dental pain are more likely to miss school and can have difficulty learning.
- One-third of children aged 2–8 years have cavities in their baby teeth. More Hispanic children (46%) and black children (44%) have cavities in their baby teeth compared to white children (31%).
- One in five children aged 6–11 years have cavities in their permanent teeth.
- Among adults aged 20–64 years, 91% have cavities.